Istanbul Cultural Tips

Dos and Don’ts

Atatürk: An image or statue of the founder of the Turkish Republic is in shops, workplaces, government buildings, and public squares. Defamation of his likeness, name, or character is illegal.

Visiting Mosques: Remove shoes before entering. Women should cover their head with a scarf.

Questions: Turks are inquisitive. If you don’t care to answer questions, vague responses are acceptable. Or ask a new question in reply.

Bargaining: Get a feel for the real value of the goods before starting. No negotiation in malls, taxis, or restaurants. Don’t haggle unless you intend to buy.

Hospitality: Turkish protocol dictates the host pay for the meal. Sharing a bill is a foreign concept. You may offer to pay, which may be seen as polite, but your Turkish host might not allow it. If they refuse you twice, allow them to pay. If you want to pay, be prepared to pick up the entire tab.

Photos: When taking photos of people, gesture or ask permission. You may be asked to send them a copy.

Restrooms: Most restrooms have both European pedestal and Asian squat toilets. Carry your own tissue and dispose in the stall’s trash can rather than flushing—Istanbul’s plumbing is ancient. Some facilities require a coin payment at the entrance.

Sending Email: The @ sign on Turkish keyboards is produced by simultaneously pressing Alt Gr and Q.